Highly sensitive nanoparticle-based detectors Heinrich Jaeger, University of Chicago, DMR 0907075

1. Highly sensitive nanoparticle-based detectorsHeinrich Jaeger, University of Chicago, DMR 0907075 Detecting trace amounts of chemicals is a key challenge. A new, versatile substrate was developed for use with surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). It uses self-assembled monolayers of gold nanoparticles and provides better illumination and collection efficiency than other solid substrates. During laser illumination of a self-assembled sheet of nanoparticles, partial sintering creates particle clusters with tiny (<2nm) gaps that greatly increase the SERS enhancement factor. The detection of chemicals at the level of 1 pico-mole and 1 femto-gram was demonstrated. J. He, X.-M. Lin, R. Divan, H. M. Jaeger, Small7, 3487-3492 (2011) self-assembled nanoparticle layer on Si3N4/Si partial anneal during illumination SERS spectra of p-mercapto-aniline (pMA) at different concentration Resultingcluster & gap sizes ideal for high-sensitivity SERS

2. Highly sensitive nanoparticle-based detectorsHeinrich Jaeger, University of Chicago, DMR 0907075 Physics with a Bang! is an annual lecture demonstration and open house organized by H. Jaeger and S. Nagel at the University of Chicago. It also includes a Demo Alley with hands-on activities and each December attracts ~500 school children, parents and members of the community. Last year a special preview (on 12/1/11) was added for science teachers in the City Colleges of Chicago.